1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 292 kg more than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
